Art for Rune Legacy Idle
Rune Legacy Idle is a 2D role-playing game with idle mechanics set in a classic high-fantasy world, released on Steam: https://store.steampowered.com/app/3098820/Rune_Legacy_Idle/
As a 2D artist in a small team, I was responsible for the development of various asset categories, including icons, environments, and creatures, from end-to-end, from ideation to the final asset.
Backgrounds & Environment
I designed diverse background environments to reflect the player’s journey across different realms, prioritizing depth and atmosphere while ensuring zero distraction from the core gameplay UI. My workflow involved creating three compositional thumbnails (seen on the left) for each scene. After selecting the best direction with the producer, I developed the final painting, constantly testing it within gameplay mockups to guarantee visual balance and functional clarity.
Character Equipment & Props
Rune Legacy features 2D animation loops for player actions, and I was responsible for designing both the in-game tools and their corresponding UI icons. To reflect the player's growth, I developed a clear visual progression for each item. My focus was on creating a cohesive evolution path for each prop, where the silhouette and details grow in complexity as the player levels up. In the following sheets, you can see the full cycle: from the UI icon to the functional prop used in animation, and finally, the character model wielding the tool.
Armour Sets
Shown here are the character armor sets side by side, in the game environment. My primary focus was on establishing a tangible sense of progression for each class. I designed the equipment tiers, maintaining a consistent class identity while escalating the complexity of silhouettes and materials. I ensured that each tier feels like a significant achievement, more formidable and legendary than the last.
Creature & Enemy Design
I was responsible for designing three enemies that inhabit the world of Rune Legacy. Below, I’ve included the initial sketches where I used the main character as a reference for style consistency and scale. This ensures that each creature feels like it belongs in the same universe. You can also see the final, polished versions on the gameplay screen.
Iconography & UI Elements
For the class system in Rune Legacy, I developed a set of icons representing both combat and life-skill roles: Warrior, Rogue, Mage, Adventurer, Farmer, Forager, Artisan, and Merchant. My workflow involved creating three colored sketch options for each class to explore different silhouettes and metaphors. Following the producer’s selection, I polished the final assets to ensure high readability and a cohesive aesthetic across the game’s interface.
In a game centered on resource management, icons are the primary way players interact with the world. I developed a vast library of hundreds of assets across categories, including gems, bars, runes, types of wood, food, crates, and more. My focus was on creating a cohesive visual language that allows players to categorize items at a glance, maintaining artistic quality across every single UI element.
